Audi finally built the big one. The 2027 Q9 and SQ9 are Audi's first true full-size SUVs, three rows, aimed straight at the BMW X7, Mercedes GLS, and Cadillac Escalade. And the SQ9 didn't come to play.
The numbers
The SQ9 gets a reworked 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 making 591 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. That's good for 0-60 in 3.8 seconds, which Audi claims is the quickest in the three-row class. For context, that's half a second behind an RS6 Avant, in a vehicle that weighs over 5,550 pounds and seats seven.
The regular Q9 isn't slow either: a 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 with 429 hp and 442 lb-ft, 0-60 in 4.9 seconds.
The value punch
Here's the part that matters: the SQ9 starts at $118,000. The Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 starts at $151,050, makes 603 hp, and is somehow three-tenths *slower* to 60. The BMW X7 M60i is $115,000 with 523 hp and a 4.5-second 0-60. Audi just undercut the segment's heavyweight by $33,000 while beating it off the line.
More than straight-line speed
The SQ9 gets a rear-biased quattro system with an electronically controlled rear differential, staggered-width tires (22s or 23s), brake torque vectoring, and standard rear-wheel steering. Adaptive air suspension is standard on both models, with 3.5 inches of ride-height adjustment. Both tow up to 7,700 pounds.
The tech flex
This is where Audi went full flagship:
- Digital Matrix LED headlights come to the US with full functionality for the first time, using micro-LEDs to shape the beam and cut glare for oncoming traffic. - Curved digital OLED taillights, a production-car first. Customizable, with warning graphics that can even project directional arrows on the ground for pedestrians. - Digital Stage cabin: 11.9-inch instrument cluster, 14.5-inch center screen, 12.3-inch passenger display with privacy mode. - Hands-free Level 2+ driving with automated lane changes on approved roads.
At 209 inches long on a 123.5-inch wheelbase, it's the largest production Audi ever sold.
Price and availability
Q9 starts at $87,700, SQ9 at $118,000, before the $1,395 destination charge. US deliveries begin Q4 2026.
My take
I got behind the wheel in Newport Beach as part of the first media group Audi handed the keys to. Full driving impressions are coming on the channel. But on paper, the SQ9 is the performance bargain of the full-size luxury segment, and it's not close.